A stressed-out man in the courtroom

Taking the Stand in Your Own Defense— The Pros and the Cons

You must know your rights and responsibilities when you’re about to face a criminal charge. You can choose to remain silent because it’s your right. You cannot be compelled to testify or incriminate against yourself. 

But it’s human nature to stand for yourself to explain your innocence if you’re accused of a crime.

 

Taking a stand to defend yourself seems to be the right choice at the time. But it has more cons than pros. Let’s discuss.

Pros for Taking a Stand in Your Defense:

The Sixth Amendment of the US Constitution states that every criminal defendant has the right to refuse to testify and take a stand for themselves.

  • You can mention your side of the story in your own words.
  • The emotional range in your voice could be evident and may favor your case.
  • You know the situation best and can elaborate it more correctly.
  • You’ll be able to answer the cross-examination questions confidently.

Cons For Taking a  Stand in Your Defense:

 

The Burden of Proofs

You have to collect all the possible proof, which can be hard, considering you’re new at this.

Right Against Self-Incrimination

You have to preserve your Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination, but when you choose to take the stand, you waive the request for the fifth amendment, which will compel you to answer the prosecution’s questions.

Face the Brutal Cross-Examination


Once you take the stand, the prosecution will get a bit harsh during cross-examination. Even the most credible and confident defendants can become an unbelievable mess.

Lady justice and a gavel on a green table.

Impression on the Jury

You have to be very careful as the jury will scrutinize your behavior in search of any signs or indications that you could be lying or if you’re guilty. This can negatively impact your case.

What Else Can You Do?

An affordable bail bonds service that can help you out. As the defendant, you can pay the bail bonds agency a small fee, and the bail bondsmen will pay the court on your behalf and secure the amount from you in the form of collateral.

If you’re looking for an affordable bail bonds service to help you make bail, you’re at the right place. It would be best if you worked on your defense case as soon as possible. At DeLaughter Bail Bonds, we have been serving the people of Indiana with our 24 hours service.

Contact us today and let us help you too.

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